What aspects of the Business Economics course did you find most enjoyable?
I really enjoyed the broad range of modules that challenged me in different ways, the learning process or assessments were varied for each module which developed different skills. I specifically enjoyed management accounting with Nick Drape, the Airbus coursework gave a real-life business case that built on key topics in the module but also built soft skills due to the group aspect. Another great module in final year was Price of Football, the lecturer Kieran is extremely knowledgeable on football finances - this was very enjoyable for me as I had listened to his podcast previously due to my interest in football so to be able to learn from him was an exciting opportunity.
Can you describe your experience studying in Liverpool?
What most stood to me was the music scene in Liverpool, there was always an event to go to every weekend – and weekday! Everyone in the city is welcoming to students so there are so many places to go.
What were some of the key highlights during your time at university?
The airbus coursework in advanced management accounting was the best project I had worked on which is surprising as normally team projects can be challenging. It really wasn’t the case due to everyone buying into it, likely due to it being so well delivered with representatives from Airbus coming in to pitch the ‘problem', to then getting the opportunity to go to the Airbus site upon completion!
After graduation you completed an internship with a team of other ULMS graduates. Could you elaborate on your role in this project and working with NomoBO?
This was a great opportunity provided to us from ULMS, that allowed a small group of graduates real exposure to a business. My role was a financial consultant, the founder required some help with the finances of his business before he launched. This involved a briefing call to understand the final deliverables required, then throughout a month we built multiple revenue forecast models for the client to give him an understanding of how he could price his product. One of the real challenges was the time difference with the founder being in LA, there was only a small window of time to have alignment calls. This provided me with great experience working with a real business and really consolidated my interest in finance.
You then joined Lyreco UK and Ireland as an Accounts Receivable Assistant. What were the most valuable skills you gained in this role?
In my role at Lyreco, I gained valuable skills in communication within a professional environment, as I regularly liaised with clients to resolve payment issues and manage accounts. This role also honed my time management abilities, as I had to prioritise multiple tasks and meet deadlines. My studies developed key problem-solving and analytical skills which were crucial in identifying and addressing discrepancies in my role, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in the financial processes I managed.
What accomplishments are you most proud of from your time in this role?
My biggest accomplishment in this role was being offered a permanent contract. Due to the position only being temporary through an agency, I knew I had to perform at a high standard consistently to gain a permanent role. Two months after my permanent role started, I was offered a promotion, this was a really proud moment as it showed senior people had recognised my hard work and wanted to give me a better opportunity. I unfortunately had to decline due to wanting to pursue another opportunity at Capgemini and take the chance to travel.
You took some time to travel around Asia. Could you share some of the highlights from your travels?
Navigating unfamiliar environments and adapting to different customs helped me develop resilience, flexibility, and problem-solving skills—qualities that have translated into my professional life. Interacting with people from various backgrounds also strengthened my communication skills, enhancing my ability to connect with others in both personal and workplace settings. Ultimately though it gave me an appreciation for how much there is to experience outside of the UK, and I look forward to travelling more in the future.
Congratulations on starting your new role as a Graduate Finance Analyst at Capgemini! What are you most excited about as you begin this new chapter?
I am most excited about the opportunity to start studying for CIMA alongside working. It will be an intense period of hard work until I complete it with lots of challenging content and numerous exams (luckily, I have 4 exemptions due to my degree) but it is a great chance to progress my career and gain an internationally recognised certification.
Based on your own journey, what advice would you give to current students transitioning from university to the professional world?
One main piece of advice I would give is – don’t rush. By that I mean don’t feel like you’re behind if you miss out on a graduate scheme you really wanted and don’t go into something you don’t align with just because. Make sure you do your research on a company and their offer so you know it will be the right fit. Rejection is redirection, I was extremely down when I didn’t get a graduate scheme at Capgemini in my final year however without that I wouldn’t have gained valuable experience at Lyreco or had the opportunity to travel.
Looking back, what is one key lesson you have learned that you think would benefit those just starting out in the finance and business fields?
Be curious, there is lots to learn in finance and business and you can start by asking questions to lecturers and managers. Any insight from their experience can be extremely useful. I’ve had advice on a whole range of things from excel tips to CIMA to where I should visit in Thailand!
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